N.J. State Police graduate 91 new troopers in most diverse class in history

TRENTON — The State Police today graduated 91 new troopers from the latest class of recruits and said the group was the most diverse in history, largely because of the number of Hispanics.

The 152nd class, which was awarded badges at a ceremony at Elizabeth High School, includes 12 black troopers, who represent 13 percent of the group, down from the 23 who entered the grueling 24 weeks of training in Sea Girt.

The class also includes 25 Hispanic men, six Asian men and two listed as other, State Police said. The group also includes 42 white men. Overall, just four women — three white and one Hispanic — graduated today.

"The 91 men and women of the 152nd Class entered on day one as individuals, and are now leaving as a unified team," said Julian Castellanos, commandant of the academy.

The next class of State Police recruits is expected to graduate in December, with two others expected to begin next year.